An Afternoon <strong>with</strong> Marlene Burling Local Bookstore Features Pastor’s Widow in Book Signing Session Publisher Authors Press kicked off Marlene Burling’s promotional tour for her latest book the Daily Walk <strong>with</strong> God <strong>with</strong> an exclusive book signing session at Creative Books in Pittsburg, California last February 16, 2019. authorial magazine | 22
“For this year, we are focusing on maximizing real-time exposure and expanding the digital footprints of our authors. We want to make sure that the clients we work <strong>with</strong> can engage <strong>with</strong> potential readers and have actual face time <strong>with</strong> them. Though we understand the importance of online marketing and publicity and the tremendous traction they can generate for writers, we can’t underestimate the intangible value of building a fan base in local communities. The chance to talk to authors in person and pick their brains on subjects that they are passionate about is an experience we want to bring to readers on a personal level,“ shares Authors Press’ Chief Managing Director, Via Jones. The event started at 2p.m. <strong>with</strong> Burling sharing her personal experiences and the key moments in her life that led her to publish her book. “Since the passing of my husband, God has blessed me in so many ways and has shown me that there is truly “life after death.” Yes, of course, eternal life, but I’m talking about the here and now. He wants us to live that abundant life provided through Jesus Christ, our Lord, in our everyday lives. We can do that as we walk <strong>with</strong> Him daily, looking for lessons He spreads in our way to grow us and make us like His son, Jesus Christ. What an awesome God we have,” says Burling. Book enthusiasts from different parts of Pittsburg, California, had the chance to interact <strong>with</strong> the author and grab a signed copy of her work during the 3-hour book signing session. For Ronald and Jennie Lee, a couple on their first trip to California from York, who happened to bump into the signing by chance, were able to participate despite the unfavorable conditions at that time. “You’re only in California once, though the weather today certainly reminds us of home.” Lee said. The book signing turnout, hosted by Creative Books which is located along Buchanan Road, had been unexpectedly high. Burling read a few passages from her book during the session. She encouraged her audience to always stay in touch <strong>with</strong> the spiritual aspect of their lives by dedicating certain hours of the day to God. She shared her writing process, tracing the origins of her books which began as a personal exercise to process her grief upon the death of her husband of 51 years. She went on to share that the project took on a life of its own and resulted in writing devotionals which eventually led to the formation of the book that it is today. Marlene Burling is scheduled to participate in major book festivals all throughout the year. She is also open to speak in special gatherings, individual churches and spiritual meetings. She has written articles for newsletters, a children’s book titled “Grandma, Tell Me the Easter Story,” and designed a workshop titled, “There’s Life After Death— (LIVING in Widowhood),” which she presents to churches, ladies’ groups, or other groups. She started a widow’s ministry in her church for widows and singles. The group is called The King’s Daughters. Get the latest update about the author by visiting www. marleneburling.com. authorial magazine | 23
Change language